make minor modifications

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make minor modifications" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to small changes or adjustments that need to be made to something, such as a document, design, or plan. Example: "After reviewing the report, I decided to make minor modifications to improve clarity and accuracy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

He said he would continue to take a drug regularly to lower his cholesterol and to make "minor modifications" in his other regular medications.

The New York Times

Even worse, the bill also includes a loophole that would allow companies to make minor modifications to the drugs just before the protection period ends and receive a new monopoly.

The New York Times

Bonds will be capped at four weeks' rent and renters will have the right to make minor modifications to the home without consent, such as putting hooks on the walls.

The Guardian

The idea is to make minor modifications to the structure which are sufficient to change its frequency response so that the transmission of vibrations in a given frequency band is suppressed.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Coda Holdings will make minor modifications to battery packs for its cars, which use Chinese-manufactured lithium iron phosphate cells, and sell them individually or grouped together — both for storing solar power when homeowners' rooftop panels generate more than they use, and to help businesses reduce their peak loads.

The New York Times

Also part of the package is what Nest calls "seasonal savings," which will see the smart thermostat measure user temperature preferences over the course of the year and make minor modifications over the course of a few weeks.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

In which an unhappy biotech employee makes minor modifications to the genome of a virus – for example, avian flu H5N1.

The Guardian - Tech

But while others' projects typically keep a game's realistic setting while making minor modifications to its scenery or characters, Jodi is again making abstract art.

The New York Times - Arts

Spanish translation experts (n=7) fluent in both languages and familiar with both cultures made minor modifications but essentially approved client preferences.

Journal of the American Dietetic Association

Mr. Webb bought USA 76 in 2010, made minor modifications to convert it to a passenger vessel and began public sailings in June 2011.

The New York Times - Travel

Most strikingly, the material included four worst case possibilities: 1 The disaffected lab worker In which an unhappy biotech employee makes minor modifications to the genome of a virus – for example, avian flu H5N1.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make minor modifications" when you want to emphasize that the changes are not drastic or fundamental.

Common error

Avoid using "make minor modifications" when the changes are substantial or significantly alter the original form or function; opt for phrases like "make significant changes" or "completely overhaul" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make minor modifications" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of making small changes. It is frequently used to describe the process of adjusting something to improve it without fundamentally altering its nature, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make minor modifications" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of making small adjustments or changes. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, especially in science and news media. When using this phrase, remember that the key is to imply that the changes are not drastic but rather subtle refinements. Consider alternatives like ""make slight adjustments"" or ""tweak slightly"" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Overstating the impact of changes can lead to miscommunication, so choose your words carefully to accurately reflect the scope of the adjustments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make slight adjustments

Emphasizes the small degree of change being made.

make small alterations

Highlights the limited scope of the changes.

make subtle changes

Focuses on the barely noticeable nature of the modifications.

tweak slightly

Implies a gentle and careful adjustment.

adjust marginally

Suggests changes are made within a very small range.

refine subtly

Indicates improvements made in a delicate way.

make modest revisions

Highlights that the revisions are limited in nature.

make superficial alterations

Indicates changes only affect the surface level.

make cosmetic adjustments

Focuses specifically on aesthetic or presentational changes.

fine-tune gently

Suggests making slight improvements for optimal performance.

FAQs

How can I use "make minor modifications" in a sentence?

You can use "make minor modifications" to describe small changes or adjustments. For example, "The team decided to "make minor modifications" to the design based on user feedback."

What are some alternatives to "make minor modifications"?

Alternatives include "make slight adjustments", "make small alterations", or "tweak slightly". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "make minor modifications" in formal writing?

Yes, "make minor modifications" is suitable for formal writing, as it clearly conveys that the changes are not substantial. It's common in business, academic, and technical contexts.

What's the difference between "make minor modifications" and "make major changes"?

"Make minor modifications" implies small, superficial adjustments, while "make major changes" indicates significant, substantial alterations that can transform the original entity.